Quick Answer

Use a 2-liter pitcher with a removable infuser to steep your favorite loose leaf tea, then add fresh lemon and lime slices for a bright, citrusy iced tea.

Why a Pitcher with an Infuser Works Best

When making citrus iced tea, the right pitcher makes a big difference. A pitcher with a removable infuser lets you steep loose leaf tea directly in the pitcher, then remove the leaves when the tea reaches your desired strength. This avoids over-steeping and keeps the tea clear and fresh-tasting.

The 2 L Lemon-Lime Iced Tea Pitcher from DAVIDsTEA is designed for this purpose. It has a removable infuser and a screw-on, spill-proof lid, so you can steep, chill, and serve without transferring to another container. The durable BPA-free Tritan material is also practical for everyday use.

Balancing Citrus Flavor

The goal is a bright, refreshing citrus taste, not an overly tart drink. Start with a modest amount of lemon and lime slices, then taste and add more if needed. The tea itself should still come through, so don't let the citrus overpower it.

If you prefer a sweeter drink, add a simple syrup or honey while the tea is still warm, so it dissolves easily. For a sugar-free option, a few drops of stevia can work, but adjust gradually to avoid an artificial aftertaste.

Steps to Make Lemon-Lime Iced Tea

  1. Step 1: Choose Your Tea: Pick a loose leaf tea that pairs well with citrus, such as a green tea or a white tea. Avoid teas with strong floral notes that might clash with lemon and lime. A mild, slightly sweet tea base works best.
  2. Step 2: Add Tea to the Infuser: Place about 1 to 2 teaspoons of loose leaf tea per cup (or per the tea's instructions) into the removable infuser. For a 2 L pitcher, you'll typically need 4 to 8 teaspoons, depending on desired strength. Check the tea's recommended steeping amount to avoid bitterness.
  3. Step 3: Heat Water and Steep: Heat fresh, cold water to the temperature recommended for your tea (usually 175°F to 185°F for green or white teas). Pour the hot water over the infuser in the pitcher and let it steep for 3 to 5 minutes. Don't use boiling water for delicate teas—it can make them bitter.
  4. Step 4: Remove the Infuser: Once the tea has reached your desired strength, lift out the infuser and let the tea cool to room temperature. Remove the infuser promptly to prevent over-steeping. Set a timer so you don't forget to remove the leaves.
  5. Step 5: Add Citrus and Chill: While the tea is still warm, add thin slices of lemon and lime. You can also squeeze in some fresh juice for extra zing. Then, add cold water or ice to fill the pitcher, and refrigerate until fully chilled. Taste before adding more citrus—you can always add more later.
  6. Step 6: Serve and Store: Pour the iced tea into glasses with ice. If you're not serving right away, screw on the spill-proof lid and keep the pitcher in the fridge. Consume within 2 days for the freshest flavor. The citrus flavor intensifies over time, so adjust the amount if storing longer.

Product Spotlight

  • Lemon-Lime Iced Tea Pitcher: This 2 L pitcher has a removable infuser and a screw-on, spill-proof lid, and is made of durable BPA-free Tritan. The infuser lets you steep loose leaf tea directly in the pitcher, and the spill-proof lid makes it easy to store and serve your lemon-lime iced tea.

    Lemon-Lime Iced Tea Pitcher

    Lemon-Lime Iced Tea Pitcher